Planning application efficiency 'on the increase'

The efficiency with which local planning authorities handle planning applications is continuing to improve, it has been suggested.

Planning minister Baroness Andrews has said that average performance has increased by nine percentage points in the 12 months to March, compared to assessments made six months ago.

In total 86 per cent of local planning authorities met the governmental target of deciding on applications within 13 weeks.

"I am delighted to announce that almost a third of all planning authorities have improved their performance in handling major applications over the last six months. Such applications are very important because of their impact on local places, and handling them efficiently has significant benefits both for the developer and for the wider economy," commented Baroness Andrews.

I offer my warm congratulations to these authorities and would encourage those few who have still to meet the targets to learn from their example," the minister added.

However, This is Hertfordshire has reported that a minister is to investigate the decision to approve a 12 flat application which provided for just one parking space.


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